On Tuesday, 18th March, a fleet cyber security conference held in Birmingham examined how the rail industry is responding to an increase in threats to cyber security.

Hosted by Rail Partners, the Rail Delivery Group (RDG), and the Rail Safety and Standards Board (RSSB), the event brought together fleet operators, owners, and the supply chain, to share best practice in cyber security and examine real-world case studies. It also included a relaunch of the Rail Cyber Security Strategy.

Nicole Jennings, the Rail Delivery Group’s Chief Delivery Officer introduced the relaunched Rail Cyber Security Strategy, followed by James Walker, from the Office of Rail and Road (ORR) and Darren Fitzgerald the Rail Safety and Standards giving an update on standards and the regulatory landscape.

A representative from train operator Northern discussed engineering change and gave examples of how the industry has responded to the challenge, whilst a workshop session explored how the procurement process can be used to ensure new rolling stock from third-party suppliers is secure by design.

Since passenger-carrying railways were created 200 years ago, they have thrived on innovation, with rolling stock continuously evolving to meet passenger needs. As new technologies are introduced, a top priority must be the protection of the railway network and fleet from cyber threats.

To ensure a safe, resilient, and reliable railway, it is essential there must be a clear and collaborative approach to cybersecurity. Events such as the Fleet Cyber Security Conference are crucial to staying ahead of emerging threats by bringing the rail industry together to share expertise and best practice.

As well as being involved in the group looking at cyber security, the Rail Delivery Group is encouraging businesses to opt for greener travel choices. Meanwhile, the Heritage Railway Association is developing its own Safety and Standards Board.

“Railway operational technology is of increasing concern to the industry, and an attractive target for external actors as well as prone to internal threats due to significant skill and knowledge gaps. This conference has helped to showcase RSSB’s commitment to supporting industry in developing their understanding of operational technology, and partnering with RDG and Rail Partners intends to demonstrate our intention to achieve this with a single voice for stakeholders. Ensuring effective cyber resilience on railway assets is key to safety compliance, and supports RSSB’s purpose to help our members keep Britain moving with safer, smarter rail.”

Mark Oakley, Professional Head of Rolling Stock at Rail Safety and Standards Board